DENVER — The Denver Broncos advanced to their second Super Bowl in three seasons by defeating the New England Patriots, 20-18, in the A.F.C. championship game.
For the Broncos, it will be their eighth Super Bowl appearance, tied for most in N.F.L. history, and second since Peyton Manning, coming off a career-threatening neck procedure, signed with them in 2012. After upending Tom Brady in the 17th and, perhaps, final installment of their classic rivalry, Manning will seek his second title — and the Broncos’ first in 17 years — on Feb.